One of the Brown's strengths is its ability to create and sustain meaningful partnerships and exchange programs with external institutions. By creating programs through which faculty and students can join forces with scientists, scholars, and artists in the region and far beyond, Brown has created a whole series of new and innovative research opportunities and degree and exchange programs. Partners range from the Rhode Island School of Design and Trinity Repertory Theatre to National University of Singapore, University of Capetown, and University of Porto.